In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy. 2 Corinthians 7:4d
I paused this morning on both of my studies in Isaiah and Revelation to listen to the Solid Joys daily devotional on DesiringGod.com. Piper reflects on Paul's joy here, and seeks to better understand how "unbelievably durable his joy was when things weren’t going well." He asks: "[w]here did this come from?" He then goes on to answer his own question as to the sources of this joy:
- Teachings of Jesus: Luke 6:22-23
- From the Holy Spirit: Galatians 5:22, 1 Thessalonians 1:6
- From belonging to the kingdom of God: Romans 14:17
- Through faith, believing God: Romans 15:13, Philippians 1:25
- Seeing and knowing Jesus as Lord: Philippians 4:4
- From fellow believers that help us: 2 Corinthians 1:24
- From the sanctifying effects of tribulations: Romans 5:3-4
I love this verse - 2 Corinthians 7:4d - I am going to use when people ask me how I am doing! I am overflowing with joy!
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God and You give me great joy - regardless of my circumstances - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such joy. My sin is great and it continues - daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
